Since there's nothing important going on, like presidential elections, I will give my predictions for this week's football contests:
Morgantown 28 - University 27 - Isn't that just the way it goes? Would be a game I would like to attend...but I don't think I'm going to.
North Marion 17 - Elkins 13 - Yep. I'm finally going to give North Marion a win and end the 28 game losing streak. Gary White can finally have his 100th victory. This is it, folks. North Marion's nightmare finally ends.
Florida 38 - Georgia 28 - Tim Tebow is just that good. Florida woke up after their loss and I'm not sure they'll lose again.
Fairmont Senior 35 - Bridgeport 27 - If I attend a football game Friday, this is the most likely. I just think West is probably better than Bridgeport...that's all.
East Fairmont 20 - Parkersburg South 17 - East must win to stay in the playoff hunt. They'll pull this one off in an upset to setup a huge East/West game. At least that's what I'm hoping for.
WVU 45 - UConn 20 - If WVU has truly found their stride, they'll whip up on the Huskies. The Auburn win was pretty but this game counts for a whole lot more since it is in-conference and on the road. A must-win for Stewart's boys.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Obama's Infomercial
At 8:00 p.m. tonight you'll likely not be able to avoid the infomercial being aired by the Obama campaign. Barack and his excess of campaign money have bought 30 minutes of airtime on CBS, NBC, Fox, Univision, MSNBC (his official campaign channel), BET and TV One. Obama is going to use the 30 minutes to have "average" Americans air their problems and Obama's plans to help.
With the election just 6 days away, this may seal the deal for Obama. Or it could backfire and tick off would-be voters by forcing them to miss their scheduled program for a political commercial. Personally, I'm wondering if this is just a sample of things to come. Will Obama use the Oval Office as his own personal platform to air to the American public his socialist agenda? Obama has already stated his favorable opinions for the redistribution of wealth by using a liberal judicial system that will favor the "downtrodden." He has stated himself that the courts have failed in establishing "redistributive change." The Warren court, he said, failed to "break free from the essential constraints" in the U.S. Constitution and launch a major redistribution of wealth. Be sure to read that entire link...that's scary stuff. This guy is going to appoint Supreme Court justices that will favor the redistribution of wealth.
Equally scary, U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D. Toledo) whipped the crowd up before Mr. Obama took the stage yesterday telling them that America needed a Second Bill of Rights guaranteeing all Americans a job, health care, homes, an education, and a fair playing field for business and farmers.
Perhaps Obama can create his new bill of rights using this language:
Article 40. Citizens have the right to work (that is, to guaranteed employment and pay in accordance wit the quantity and quality of their work, and not below the state-established minimum), including the right to choose their trade or profession, type of job and work in accordance with their inclinations, abilities, training and education, with due account of the needs of society...
Article 41. Citizens have the right to rest and leisure...
The length of collective farmers' working and leisure time is established by their collective farms. Article 42. Citizens have the right to health protection.
Of course, if that's his new Bill of Rights, he should give credit the original writers who wrote the Constitution of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics. Scary stuff, indeed.
With the election just 6 days away, this may seal the deal for Obama. Or it could backfire and tick off would-be voters by forcing them to miss their scheduled program for a political commercial. Personally, I'm wondering if this is just a sample of things to come. Will Obama use the Oval Office as his own personal platform to air to the American public his socialist agenda? Obama has already stated his favorable opinions for the redistribution of wealth by using a liberal judicial system that will favor the "downtrodden." He has stated himself that the courts have failed in establishing "redistributive change." The Warren court, he said, failed to "break free from the essential constraints" in the U.S. Constitution and launch a major redistribution of wealth. Be sure to read that entire link...that's scary stuff. This guy is going to appoint Supreme Court justices that will favor the redistribution of wealth.
Equally scary, U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D. Toledo) whipped the crowd up before Mr. Obama took the stage yesterday telling them that America needed a Second Bill of Rights guaranteeing all Americans a job, health care, homes, an education, and a fair playing field for business and farmers.
Perhaps Obama can create his new bill of rights using this language:
Article 40. Citizens have the right to work (that is, to guaranteed employment and pay in accordance wit the quantity and quality of their work, and not below the state-established minimum), including the right to choose their trade or profession, type of job and work in accordance with their inclinations, abilities, training and education, with due account of the needs of society...
Article 41. Citizens have the right to rest and leisure...
The length of collective farmers' working and leisure time is established by their collective farms. Article 42. Citizens have the right to health protection.
Of course, if that's his new Bill of Rights, he should give credit the original writers who wrote the Constitution of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics. Scary stuff, indeed.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
It's Over?
Read the paper, watch the news, surf the Internet and you would assume the election was yesterday and Barack Obama is the new President of the United States. It's actually been that way for the past 6 months. Since Hilary fell into decline, the media has pushed relentlessly for the election of Obama.
I'm not going to sit here and whine about the harsh treatment of John McCain or Sarah Palin. Fact is that the media should be digging into Palin's past and her influence as governor. McCain's past mistakes are fair game, like his dealings in the Keating 5 scandal. Cindy McCain's past drug addiction was fair game. Why, then, has the media systematically refused to dig deeper into Obama's past? Where are the interviews with past friends about Obama's history? Why are there pieces missing from his biography? Where is the in-depth study about Obama's past drug interactions?
Perhaps even an in-depth study of Obama's past wouldn't change the outcome of the election but at least it would give the semblance of fair reporting and the electorate would have some greater understanding of the man they are about to elect as president. Only now are we beginning to hear a little about Obama's past comments, like his call for the redistribution of wealth. These are things that should have been investigated months ago. The press has failed the American public. Hopefully the incoming president doesn't do the same.
I'm not going to sit here and whine about the harsh treatment of John McCain or Sarah Palin. Fact is that the media should be digging into Palin's past and her influence as governor. McCain's past mistakes are fair game, like his dealings in the Keating 5 scandal. Cindy McCain's past drug addiction was fair game. Why, then, has the media systematically refused to dig deeper into Obama's past? Where are the interviews with past friends about Obama's history? Why are there pieces missing from his biography? Where is the in-depth study about Obama's past drug interactions?
Perhaps even an in-depth study of Obama's past wouldn't change the outcome of the election but at least it would give the semblance of fair reporting and the electorate would have some greater understanding of the man they are about to elect as president. Only now are we beginning to hear a little about Obama's past comments, like his call for the redistribution of wealth. These are things that should have been investigated months ago. The press has failed the American public. Hopefully the incoming president doesn't do the same.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
The Wide Open Big East
Rutgers beats Pittsburgh and Louisville defeats South Florida. Welcome to the Big East where West Virginia now leads by default. Obviously the bulk of WVU's Big East schedule lies ahead but the Mountaineers now have the inside track to another Big East title and BCS bowl. No team other that WVU is undefeated in conference play and South Florida, the conference favorite since WVU's fall from grace, already has two losses. There's little doubt now that most will see WVU as the conference favorite following their win over Auburn. It will be interesting to see how Stewart and the gang handle the pressure.
On the other end of the spectrum is a team that will not make a bowl game this year and that is Michigan. Following the win over the then #9 Wisconsin Badgers, the wheels fell off for Michigan. The embarrassing loss to Toledo followed by the shellacking by Penn State and Michigan State all but ended Michigan's 33-year post season appearance streak. Obviously Rodriguez doesn't have the players to run his offense but you have to wonder what happened to Michigan. The defense should have been good enough to at least remain competitive. This team is done. It looks very likely that Rodriguez won't even be able to match the 3-wins he had in his first season at WVU.
On the other end of the spectrum is a team that will not make a bowl game this year and that is Michigan. Following the win over the then #9 Wisconsin Badgers, the wheels fell off for Michigan. The embarrassing loss to Toledo followed by the shellacking by Penn State and Michigan State all but ended Michigan's 33-year post season appearance streak. Obviously Rodriguez doesn't have the players to run his offense but you have to wonder what happened to Michigan. The defense should have been good enough to at least remain competitive. This team is done. It looks very likely that Rodriguez won't even be able to match the 3-wins he had in his first season at WVU.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Turning the Corner?
Say what you will about Auburn's disappointing season but you can't help but feel a little optimism following WVU's second half shellacking of the Tigers. I expected the Tigers to be as quick as WVU to the corner but it appeared WVU had far more speed. WVU put up 445 yards and 34 points against a tough SEC defense. And Auburn only lost to LSU by 5 points.
After some early sputters, the WVU offense found a groove with the running game and decimated the Auburn defensive line. On the other side of the ball, the WVU defense tightened up after 17 first half points and held the Tigers scoreless in the second half. Auburn's offensive woes were known before the game but no one expected the Mountaineer defense to give up a mere 260 yards.
Auburn came out with a good gameplan, which was to run the ball and chew up as much clock as possible to keep Pat White off the field and the WVU offense sputtering. But too many 3rd and longs killed that strategy by late second quarter and the Tigers were on the rope. Noel Devine found his stride and the rest, as they say, is history. A great win for the Mountaineers.
So, where does it go from here? The loss probably sealed Tuberville's fate at Auburn. I would be very surprised if he comes back for this 11th year. More interesting is what WVU can do from here. Sitting at 5-2 with 5 games remaining, this WVU team looks like a legitimate contender for another Big East crown. The offensive line finally played like a cohesive unit and the defense remained stout against a tough competitor. If WVU continues to play with the urgency and emotion they showed Thursday night, there's not a better team in the Big East. With South Florida playing in Morgantown and Pittsburgh always being de facto home game, there's not much in the way.
I'm not going to go overboard yet. Five games remain. None are easy but there are three that should be in the win column. The other two are substantial tests. Another 10-2 season is not out of the question and, if WVU can do that, another shot at a big time game. If we can bring the team that played the second half last night, that's a game I would look forward to.
After some early sputters, the WVU offense found a groove with the running game and decimated the Auburn defensive line. On the other side of the ball, the WVU defense tightened up after 17 first half points and held the Tigers scoreless in the second half. Auburn's offensive woes were known before the game but no one expected the Mountaineer defense to give up a mere 260 yards.
Auburn came out with a good gameplan, which was to run the ball and chew up as much clock as possible to keep Pat White off the field and the WVU offense sputtering. But too many 3rd and longs killed that strategy by late second quarter and the Tigers were on the rope. Noel Devine found his stride and the rest, as they say, is history. A great win for the Mountaineers.
So, where does it go from here? The loss probably sealed Tuberville's fate at Auburn. I would be very surprised if he comes back for this 11th year. More interesting is what WVU can do from here. Sitting at 5-2 with 5 games remaining, this WVU team looks like a legitimate contender for another Big East crown. The offensive line finally played like a cohesive unit and the defense remained stout against a tough competitor. If WVU continues to play with the urgency and emotion they showed Thursday night, there's not a better team in the Big East. With South Florida playing in Morgantown and Pittsburgh always being de facto home game, there's not much in the way.
I'm not going to go overboard yet. Five games remain. None are easy but there are three that should be in the win column. The other two are substantial tests. Another 10-2 season is not out of the question and, if WVU can do that, another shot at a big time game. If we can bring the team that played the second half last night, that's a game I would look forward to.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Moment of Truth?
Sure, West Virginia could lose to Auburn and still win the Big East, go to a BCS bowl and finish ranked. Sure, WVU could lose to Auburn and Bill Stewart could still navigate the waters through Pittsburgh and South Florida. Sure, the Mountaineers could lose to Auburn and fans would forget by the end of the season if things turn around. But there's still a growing sentiment that if WVU loses this game to Auburn the season could be lost. Fair or not, Auburn is a moment of truth for this Mountaineer team and for head coach Bill Stewart.
At the beginning of the season, this game between WVU and Auburn was supposed to be a battle between the team expected to the win the Big East and the team fighting for an SEC championship. But WVU blew two games early and, beginning with a 3-2 victory over Mississippi State, the wheels fell off the Auburn offense. Since that narrow victory, Auburn has lost 3 of 4 and fired their offensive coordinator. WVU can't score, posting more than 30 points only against FCS Villanova. Auburn can't score, posting more than 30 points only against FCS Louisiana-Monroe.
Auburn is only averaging 292.6 yards per game compared to WVU's 347.0. But WVU hasn't played LSU, Tennessee, Vanderbilt (who is decent) and Arkansas. So to say that WVU holds a distinct offensive advantage is disingenuous. On paper, this appears to be a defensive struggle but it definitely shouldn't be. WVU should have one of the most explosive offenses in the country. And Auburn's offense should be fine. The fact that neither has shown any life at all is a real puzzle.
I don't know what tomorrow will bring but I do know that many more Mountaineer fans will be calling for Bill Stewart's head if the Mountaineers lose to the underachieving Auburn Tigers. It's a sad state of affairs for both teams tomorrow night. Both expected to achieve great things. Both failing miserably.
At the beginning of the season, this game between WVU and Auburn was supposed to be a battle between the team expected to the win the Big East and the team fighting for an SEC championship. But WVU blew two games early and, beginning with a 3-2 victory over Mississippi State, the wheels fell off the Auburn offense. Since that narrow victory, Auburn has lost 3 of 4 and fired their offensive coordinator. WVU can't score, posting more than 30 points only against FCS Villanova. Auburn can't score, posting more than 30 points only against FCS Louisiana-Monroe.
Auburn is only averaging 292.6 yards per game compared to WVU's 347.0. But WVU hasn't played LSU, Tennessee, Vanderbilt (who is decent) and Arkansas. So to say that WVU holds a distinct offensive advantage is disingenuous. On paper, this appears to be a defensive struggle but it definitely shouldn't be. WVU should have one of the most explosive offenses in the country. And Auburn's offense should be fine. The fact that neither has shown any life at all is a real puzzle.
I don't know what tomorrow will bring but I do know that many more Mountaineer fans will be calling for Bill Stewart's head if the Mountaineers lose to the underachieving Auburn Tigers. It's a sad state of affairs for both teams tomorrow night. Both expected to achieve great things. Both failing miserably.
Monday, October 20, 2008
BCS Standings
The BCS standings are finally here...I didn't know if I could wait any longer. Actually, that's a lie...I really didn't care. But as I was looking down through the Top 10, I was trying to figure out who I would like to see in the national championship game this year since WVU and Mizzou have both been eliminated. So, here's the Top 10 and whether I want to see them play in the big game and why (or why not):
Texas - Eh, not really. Texas won a national championship a few years ago and, well, I just don't care for them that much. Colt McCoy is definitely a great quarterback but something tells me they'll falter down the line.
Alabama - Why not? What a great story if Nick Saban can turn around a team that fast. Plus, it's good to see a program like Alabama rise from the ashes. Of course, it's Alabama and they're fans...well, they're pretty obnoxious. Kinda like West Virginia fans...only with something to back it up. Killer schedule remaining...doubt they can navigate it.
Penn State - JoPa is coaching in his 114th season at Penn State. Who wouldn't like to see him go out on top. Big 10 is down...if they can beat Ohio State, they're in. I like it.
Oklahoma - No, no, no. How do they remain No. 4 despite losing to Texas? Oklahoma State, Texas Tech and and the Big 12 championship game remain in their way...but, knowing Oklahoma, they'll win out and get there...then get crushed.
USC - Bleh, talk about boring. USC should be the best team in the country but they get embarrassed by Oregon State. That should disqualify them immediately but they're USC so, obviously, they get a second chance.
Oklahoma State - Talk to me after they play Texas on Saturday. If they win that, I will consider them a contender.
Georgia - Talk about underrated. USC, Oklahoma, Ohio State and Florida all lose games and they're still talked about in the hunt. Georgia loses to Alabama and theyr'e season is over. Killer schedule left but they should be playing with a chip on their shoulder. Wouldn't mind seeing them get there...
Texas Tech - Lots of offense. Questionable defense. Needed OT to beat Nebraska. The schedule gets tough now with Kansas, Texas, Oklahoma State and Oklahoma (all in 5 weeks). If they navigate that successfully, I will kneel at the alter of Graham Harrell. (not before)
Ohio State - Please, please, please don't allow them there again. The worst possible matchup? Ohio State - USC. NOOOOO!!!
Florida - Other than Georgia, this team is poised for the SEC championship game. The Mississippi loss appears to be a fluke after the beatdown they laid on LSU. Another underrated team.
So, who would I most like to see in the championship game? Penn State/Florida would be very interesting. Or Penn State / Alabama. I don't want OSU or USC in that game this year...almost any other team would be fine. If Texas Tech wins out and can put that offense on the field against Florida or Georgia, that would be a compelling matchup too. Penn State has the easiest road ahead...everyone else, good luck. By the time it's really over, we might be talking about that Utah / Boise State championship game.
Texas - Eh, not really. Texas won a national championship a few years ago and, well, I just don't care for them that much. Colt McCoy is definitely a great quarterback but something tells me they'll falter down the line.
Alabama - Why not? What a great story if Nick Saban can turn around a team that fast. Plus, it's good to see a program like Alabama rise from the ashes. Of course, it's Alabama and they're fans...well, they're pretty obnoxious. Kinda like West Virginia fans...only with something to back it up. Killer schedule remaining...doubt they can navigate it.
Penn State - JoPa is coaching in his 114th season at Penn State. Who wouldn't like to see him go out on top. Big 10 is down...if they can beat Ohio State, they're in. I like it.
Oklahoma - No, no, no. How do they remain No. 4 despite losing to Texas? Oklahoma State, Texas Tech and and the Big 12 championship game remain in their way...but, knowing Oklahoma, they'll win out and get there...then get crushed.
USC - Bleh, talk about boring. USC should be the best team in the country but they get embarrassed by Oregon State. That should disqualify them immediately but they're USC so, obviously, they get a second chance.
Oklahoma State - Talk to me after they play Texas on Saturday. If they win that, I will consider them a contender.
Georgia - Talk about underrated. USC, Oklahoma, Ohio State and Florida all lose games and they're still talked about in the hunt. Georgia loses to Alabama and theyr'e season is over. Killer schedule left but they should be playing with a chip on their shoulder. Wouldn't mind seeing them get there...
Texas Tech - Lots of offense. Questionable defense. Needed OT to beat Nebraska. The schedule gets tough now with Kansas, Texas, Oklahoma State and Oklahoma (all in 5 weeks). If they navigate that successfully, I will kneel at the alter of Graham Harrell. (not before)
Ohio State - Please, please, please don't allow them there again. The worst possible matchup? Ohio State - USC. NOOOOO!!!
Florida - Other than Georgia, this team is poised for the SEC championship game. The Mississippi loss appears to be a fluke after the beatdown they laid on LSU. Another underrated team.
So, who would I most like to see in the championship game? Penn State/Florida would be very interesting. Or Penn State / Alabama. I don't want OSU or USC in that game this year...almost any other team would be fine. If Texas Tech wins out and can put that offense on the field against Florida or Georgia, that would be a compelling matchup too. Penn State has the easiest road ahead...everyone else, good luck. By the time it's really over, we might be talking about that Utah / Boise State championship game.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
The other shoe...
Following one of the worst weeks in stock market history, the Dow posted a 4.75% gain this week which was the best performance since 2003. And since a lot of people use the stock market as a major indicator of the direction of the economy, it looks like recent moves by the Fed may be working in staving off a major recession. But you have to believe there's a lot more here than just a good week...and you have to wonder when the other shoe will drop?
The Fed has already spent $1.5 trillion dollars in attempting to prop up the faltering economy. The Treasury Department has already borrowed $500 billion from pension plans, foreign governments and other investors to replenish the coffers of the Federal Reserve. This borrowing has pushed the defecit from $9.6 trillion to $10.3 trillion in just a matter of two months. The annual budget deficit is looking to nearly triple this year, from $162 billion to $455 billion. With additional proposals not included, including another $250 billion in bailout requests, there is a scenario where the annual budge deficit starting October 1st could reach $1 trillion dollars.
Both presidential candidates have projects to spend even more money. McCain is proposing a $52 billion dollar stimulus package while Obama's plan tops $175 billion. Nancy Pelosi is calling for another $150 billion - $200 billion for stimulus and mortgage relief. And then you throw in Obama's additional investment in education and expanded health care coverage.
This is one of the reasons I didn't like the bailout. It has essentially opened the floodgates and turned the federal government into a huge bank. Only the bank just gives handouts to everyone. We're overdoing the stimulus work out of fear. And eventually that will come back to haunt us. The pain the bailouts are saving us now could come back and cause real damage later. It may take a little time, but there's always another shoe to drop.
The Fed has already spent $1.5 trillion dollars in attempting to prop up the faltering economy. The Treasury Department has already borrowed $500 billion from pension plans, foreign governments and other investors to replenish the coffers of the Federal Reserve. This borrowing has pushed the defecit from $9.6 trillion to $10.3 trillion in just a matter of two months. The annual budget deficit is looking to nearly triple this year, from $162 billion to $455 billion. With additional proposals not included, including another $250 billion in bailout requests, there is a scenario where the annual budge deficit starting October 1st could reach $1 trillion dollars.
Both presidential candidates have projects to spend even more money. McCain is proposing a $52 billion dollar stimulus package while Obama's plan tops $175 billion. Nancy Pelosi is calling for another $150 billion - $200 billion for stimulus and mortgage relief. And then you throw in Obama's additional investment in education and expanded health care coverage.
This is one of the reasons I didn't like the bailout. It has essentially opened the floodgates and turned the federal government into a huge bank. Only the bank just gives handouts to everyone. We're overdoing the stimulus work out of fear. And eventually that will come back to haunt us. The pain the bailouts are saving us now could come back and cause real damage later. It may take a little time, but there's always another shoe to drop.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Ringo Doesn't Want Your Garbage
Peace and love. Peace and love. Ringo Starr doesn't want your fan mail anymore. He isn't going to sign your pictures of the Beatles. All mail is going straight to the garbage. That includes electric bills, hospital bills and Publisher's Clearinghouse offers. Well, maybe he'll keep reading Publisher's Clearinghouse.
In case you didn't know, Ringo has too much to do. This guy is in high demand so nothing will be opened or signed after October 20th. Don't believe me, just ask the man:
So, anyway, peace and love. Peace and love. Peace and love, ad nauseum.
In case you didn't know, Ringo has too much to do. This guy is in high demand so nothing will be opened or signed after October 20th. Don't believe me, just ask the man:
So, anyway, peace and love. Peace and love. Peace and love, ad nauseum.
Monday, October 13, 2008
A Republican Candidate
Russ Weeks. That's his name. Russ Weeks is the guy challenging Democratic Governor Joe Machin this election year. Russ Weeks. If you don't know that name, don't feel bad. You're definitely not alone. I happened to know that Manchin was running against a Weeks...but I had no idea what his first name was until I looked it up. Russ Weeks.
So, Russ Weeks is the best the Republican party could come up with in West Virginia. Weeks is a former State Senator from Beckley who lost in 2006. To many, it was a shock that he defeated Bill Wooten in 2002 for the senatorial seat, his first elected position. Weeks might be a nice guy. I don't know anything about him. If you want to learn more, visit his website. After much debate, I decided not to contribute to his campaign despite the fact that "every donor who contributes at least $20 to the Russ Weeks campaign will receive a personalized MBA "diploma" from the University of Mojo." His motto: No Mo MoJo. Which, luckily, also has a website.
It would be rather funny if it weren't so sad. There was very little chance that anyone would have defeated Manchin this election cycle. However, there are a lot of West Virginia citizens who would like a choice and would like to voice their displeasure towards Machin. Weeks hardly gives them that opportunity. A lot of complaints stem from the Heather Bresch incident and Manchin's perceived meddling in WVU affairs, but there are still other real issues that deserve real solutions.
So, Manchin wins a second term by default. If he doesn't get 80% of the vote, he should really be concerned about what people out there really think of him. Of course, what really makes the difference at this point. Republicans have run from Joe and granted him a second term. Not much drama there...the drama comes when Joe makes policy. And only then.
So, Russ Weeks is the best the Republican party could come up with in West Virginia. Weeks is a former State Senator from Beckley who lost in 2006. To many, it was a shock that he defeated Bill Wooten in 2002 for the senatorial seat, his first elected position. Weeks might be a nice guy. I don't know anything about him. If you want to learn more, visit his website. After much debate, I decided not to contribute to his campaign despite the fact that "every donor who contributes at least $20 to the Russ Weeks campaign will receive a personalized MBA "diploma" from the University of Mojo." His motto: No Mo MoJo. Which, luckily, also has a website.
It would be rather funny if it weren't so sad. There was very little chance that anyone would have defeated Manchin this election cycle. However, there are a lot of West Virginia citizens who would like a choice and would like to voice their displeasure towards Machin. Weeks hardly gives them that opportunity. A lot of complaints stem from the Heather Bresch incident and Manchin's perceived meddling in WVU affairs, but there are still other real issues that deserve real solutions.
So, Manchin wins a second term by default. If he doesn't get 80% of the vote, he should really be concerned about what people out there really think of him. Of course, what really makes the difference at this point. Republicans have run from Joe and granted him a second term. Not much drama there...the drama comes when Joe makes policy. And only then.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Mountaineer Madness
Headed up Morgantown way on Friday night to get a look at Bobby Huggins' team and check out the new scoreboard and court at the Coliseum. And, I must say, it was very nice. Obviously any upgrade to the scoreboard was welcome. The old one looked a little outdated. The new one shows video in fairly good quality and is definitely a welcome change.
The court looks much, much better than the old one. Gone is the blue inside the 3-point arch and instead just the lane is gold and everything else is wood, which it should be. The court looks clean and isn't nearly as busy as the old one. Again, a very much welcome change. The lighting has improved immensely so the games shouldn't look like they're being played in the dark on TV and the sound system actually makes it possible to hear the announcer.
As for the "madness"...eh, it was entertaining I suppose. The "laser light show" was somewhat decent. The crowd enjoyed it anyway. The dunk contest showed the athleticism of Devin Ebanks, Huggins' major recruit. The scrimmages were pretty poor, but what would you expect? It should be an interesting season. And considering the way the football team is playing, basketball can't get here soon enough.
The court looks much, much better than the old one. Gone is the blue inside the 3-point arch and instead just the lane is gold and everything else is wood, which it should be. The court looks clean and isn't nearly as busy as the old one. Again, a very much welcome change. The lighting has improved immensely so the games shouldn't look like they're being played in the dark on TV and the sound system actually makes it possible to hear the announcer.
As for the "madness"...eh, it was entertaining I suppose. The "laser light show" was somewhat decent. The crowd enjoyed it anyway. The dunk contest showed the athleticism of Devin Ebanks, Huggins' major recruit. The scrimmages were pretty poor, but what would you expect? It should be an interesting season. And considering the way the football team is playing, basketball can't get here soon enough.
Friday, October 10, 2008
Close the World Market
I don't know about everyone else but when I hear that the Italian Prime Minister is talking about closing the world's market, I get a little nervous. The suspension of world market trading would give international leaders an opportunity to "rewrite the rules of international finance." Ummmm...say what?
The establishment of new rules would echo those of 1944 and the Bretton Woods Agreements. Bretton Woods established exchange rates for all currencies around the world by using the gold standard. Later, the International Monetary Fund handled the exchange rates for international currencies.
A lot has changed since 1945 and the development of Bretton Woods. Obviously a conference probably needs to take place but, honestly, I don't trust the world market at this point to actually solve the problem. To rewrite the rules of international finance, people would have to be somewhat selfless and compromising. I don't know if we live in a world of such character. Additionally, a fully powerful nation must be willing to lead...does anyone trust the United States now to be that leader? And will the US take a backseat and allow anyone else to be that leader? Chances are the answer is no to both...at least at the moment. Eventually, yes...the US will lead becuase, despite it all, the US economy remains the most stable in the world. It's just too soon for everyone else to realize that now...
The establishment of new rules would echo those of 1944 and the Bretton Woods Agreements. Bretton Woods established exchange rates for all currencies around the world by using the gold standard. Later, the International Monetary Fund handled the exchange rates for international currencies.
A lot has changed since 1945 and the development of Bretton Woods. Obviously a conference probably needs to take place but, honestly, I don't trust the world market at this point to actually solve the problem. To rewrite the rules of international finance, people would have to be somewhat selfless and compromising. I don't know if we live in a world of such character. Additionally, a fully powerful nation must be willing to lead...does anyone trust the United States now to be that leader? And will the US take a backseat and allow anyone else to be that leader? Chances are the answer is no to both...at least at the moment. Eventually, yes...the US will lead becuase, despite it all, the US economy remains the most stable in the world. It's just too soon for everyone else to realize that now...
Football Predictions
Yay...it's that time again...time for me to tell you who is going to win the "big games" this weekend. And by doing so, revealing who will lose the "big games" this weekend. So, here goes:
West Fairmont 27 - Buckhannon 13 - West Fairmont = good. Buckhannon = not as good.
Morgantown 117 - North Marion 3 - Late field goal gives North Marion a moral victory. Can't we get someone like EF Junior High on North Marion's schedule? It's a rough go.
University 24 - Brooke 7 - Is University for real? Someone really needs to tell me.
Oklahoma 42 - Texas 27 - Oklahoma is an amazing team. Until it comes to bowl season and then they turn into Notre Dame.
Florida 21 - LSU 17 - Urban Myer needs to let Tebow go back to being Tebow. He can literally will his team to victory when he's given the opportunity. It comes down to coaching really.
West Virginia 35 - Syracuse 24 - Once again, it comes down to coaching. And there may be no worse coach than Greg Robinson up in Syracuse. That program is 10 years from good now. Robinson seems like a nice guy but something up there is just not right. Syracuse shouldn't be the new Temple.
So, there you go. Brief and to the point. I was 3-3 last week...this week I'll predict I'm 5-1. How about that for a prediction?
West Fairmont 27 - Buckhannon 13 - West Fairmont = good. Buckhannon = not as good.
Morgantown 117 - North Marion 3 - Late field goal gives North Marion a moral victory. Can't we get someone like EF Junior High on North Marion's schedule? It's a rough go.
University 24 - Brooke 7 - Is University for real? Someone really needs to tell me.
Oklahoma 42 - Texas 27 - Oklahoma is an amazing team. Until it comes to bowl season and then they turn into Notre Dame.
Florida 21 - LSU 17 - Urban Myer needs to let Tebow go back to being Tebow. He can literally will his team to victory when he's given the opportunity. It comes down to coaching really.
West Virginia 35 - Syracuse 24 - Once again, it comes down to coaching. And there may be no worse coach than Greg Robinson up in Syracuse. That program is 10 years from good now. Robinson seems like a nice guy but something up there is just not right. Syracuse shouldn't be the new Temple.
So, there you go. Brief and to the point. I was 3-3 last week...this week I'll predict I'm 5-1. How about that for a prediction?
Thursday, October 09, 2008
Ways to Invest Money
In these trying times it becomes increasingly important to determine the best way to invest your money. Some are just riding out the stock market, some are buying commodities, some are putting it in their mattress and some or just crying and wondering where it went. A little boy in the UK may have found the best way to invest money though: buy toys, candy and games.
Think about it, what a better way to blow that extra $105,000.00 than to spend it on things you can truly enjoy. Sure, candy is perishable and games and such lose value over the long run but they can't lose more value than what we're seeing everything else lose. At least he didn't buy real estate. Smart kid. And, unlike real estate or stocks, he can actually enjoy his investment. Well, until dad comes home...then it's probably game over.
While I fully endorse this young man's investments, I'm sure Jim Cramer does not. He thinks people should put their money in federally insured savings accounts and such...but that's no fun. Candy, yes. Savings accounts, no.
In other economic news, the fed is talking about buying stakes in banks all across the country. That should be pretty interesting. The government is just buying bad loans left and right. I'm just not sure...once this is done, it's done. You can't unring the bell. We're going down a very scary path here.
Oil prices are collapsing, which means these little oil countries are going to feel a real big pinch soon and begin slashing production. OPEC has already called for an emergency meeting. As I said before, OPEC cannot afford to allow oil to fall back down to $60 a barrell. With it at $85 now, it is getting dangerously close. Really, they need it to hang around $100. With countries like Russia fully depending on oil for all revenue, a collapse would be catastrophic.
I'll make football predictions tomorrow. Last week was kinda poor really...went 3-3. (Well, 4-3 if you count the bailout prediction.) I'll do better this week...or worse. That, I guarantee you.
Think about it, what a better way to blow that extra $105,000.00 than to spend it on things you can truly enjoy. Sure, candy is perishable and games and such lose value over the long run but they can't lose more value than what we're seeing everything else lose. At least he didn't buy real estate. Smart kid. And, unlike real estate or stocks, he can actually enjoy his investment. Well, until dad comes home...then it's probably game over.
While I fully endorse this young man's investments, I'm sure Jim Cramer does not. He thinks people should put their money in federally insured savings accounts and such...but that's no fun. Candy, yes. Savings accounts, no.
In other economic news, the fed is talking about buying stakes in banks all across the country. That should be pretty interesting. The government is just buying bad loans left and right. I'm just not sure...once this is done, it's done. You can't unring the bell. We're going down a very scary path here.
Oil prices are collapsing, which means these little oil countries are going to feel a real big pinch soon and begin slashing production. OPEC has already called for an emergency meeting. As I said before, OPEC cannot afford to allow oil to fall back down to $60 a barrell. With it at $85 now, it is getting dangerously close. Really, they need it to hang around $100. With countries like Russia fully depending on oil for all revenue, a collapse would be catastrophic.
I'll make football predictions tomorrow. Last week was kinda poor really...went 3-3. (Well, 4-3 if you count the bailout prediction.) I'll do better this week...or worse. That, I guarantee you.
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
Retirement accounts lose $2 trillion
American retirement accounts have lost $2 trillion dollars over the last 15 months. Now, think about that for just a minute. TWO TRILLION DOLLARS. Gone. Just vanished as though it never existed. And, technically, it never really did exist. It was just on paper. And that paper became worthless and now that money is gone.
It's pretty amazing when you think about it. $2 trillion just gone. It's not like someone else got the $2 trillion. It just disappeared. And with it the ability for perhaps millions of Americans to retire. Which, of course, will only exacerbate unemployment as older Americans hang on to their jobs. Which means high school and college students today may find an unfriendly job market in the next few years. Of course, that's worst case. And, despite my optimism, it seems like everything is going worst case.
On the lighter side, I watched Monday Night Football on Monday night. How dumb do you have to be to continue to punt to Reggie Bush? I hate to say it, but the guy is pretty amazing. Stop punting to him.
The West Virginia Education Association didn't endorse Joe Manchin. They didn't endorse anyone actually but for the WVEA not to blindly endorse the Democratic candidate means he really made them mad. Of course it goes back to last year when Manchin couldn't pull a raise for teacher's out of the air. It's not like it matters anyway considering no one is running against Manchin. Oh, yeah, maybe someone is but I can't remember his name...
The election is approaching quickly. There's a debate tonight. What excitement. I can barely contain myself...
It's pretty amazing when you think about it. $2 trillion just gone. It's not like someone else got the $2 trillion. It just disappeared. And with it the ability for perhaps millions of Americans to retire. Which, of course, will only exacerbate unemployment as older Americans hang on to their jobs. Which means high school and college students today may find an unfriendly job market in the next few years. Of course, that's worst case. And, despite my optimism, it seems like everything is going worst case.
On the lighter side, I watched Monday Night Football on Monday night. How dumb do you have to be to continue to punt to Reggie Bush? I hate to say it, but the guy is pretty amazing. Stop punting to him.
The West Virginia Education Association didn't endorse Joe Manchin. They didn't endorse anyone actually but for the WVEA not to blindly endorse the Democratic candidate means he really made them mad. Of course it goes back to last year when Manchin couldn't pull a raise for teacher's out of the air. It's not like it matters anyway considering no one is running against Manchin. Oh, yeah, maybe someone is but I can't remember his name...
The election is approaching quickly. There's a debate tonight. What excitement. I can barely contain myself...
Monday, October 06, 2008
Down, down, down
The injection of $700 billion into the market certainly hasn't done much to help the stock market today as it quickly sheds excess weight and challenges the big 770-point drop last week. Fear is on the rise as credit quickly dries up. Companies that desperately rely on short-term credit (car dealers, small stores needing holiday inventory, etc.) are running into problems getting the credit they needs as banks look for any reason to decline even seemingly good loans. Bad credit loans are pretty much non-existent at the moment.
The chances of avoiding recession are pretty much null at this point considering the problems on the global market. As bad as America looks at the moment, Europe may actually be in greater trouble due to their lack of any action. At the end of the day, the questionable American economy may still turn out to be the great stabilizer in the end. And despite the rocky road it has been on lately, the dollar is still the great hope for the world.
It could get much uglier before it turns around, but it will turn around. Some people will lose their jobs...it's going to happen. Some people will lose a lot of money. But market corrections are bound to happen and they hurt. Things will turn back around...but it's going to take a little while to get there. The question is just how far down we must go before that occurs.
The chances of avoiding recession are pretty much null at this point considering the problems on the global market. As bad as America looks at the moment, Europe may actually be in greater trouble due to their lack of any action. At the end of the day, the questionable American economy may still turn out to be the great stabilizer in the end. And despite the rocky road it has been on lately, the dollar is still the great hope for the world.
It could get much uglier before it turns around, but it will turn around. Some people will lose their jobs...it's going to happen. Some people will lose a lot of money. But market corrections are bound to happen and they hurt. Things will turn back around...but it's going to take a little while to get there. The question is just how far down we must go before that occurs.
Friday, October 03, 2008
The Wannstache Strikes
Missippi State beats Florida. East Carolina over West Virginia. USC falling to Oregon State. All of that is part of college football. The Wannstache defeating #10 South Florida, now that's something of a greater power.
Pittsburgh lost of Bowling Green to start the season. He tried to lose to Iowa. He tried to lose to Syracuse. The alumni at Pittsburgh wanted the 'stache headed to them on a golden platter. This would certainly be the last year for the 'stache and then the guy has to turn around and beat another Top 10 team. This makes his second victory over a Top 10 opponent in the last 6-games. (Need I remind anyone of the 13-9 debacle in Morgantown last year? Do you remember that? Yeah, that was the Wannstache's team.)With this victory, Pittsburgh improves to 4-1 and it looks like the 'stache's job will be safe if he can simply win 4-5 more games. If he can get the win at Notre Dame, this guy is going to stick around and probably get another freakin' contract extension. Great. That should be fun. Watching the 'stache trotting up and down the sideline.
On an even worse note, Pittsburgh looked decent at times again South Florida. If it wasn't for a special teams mistake, they probably walk away with that game pretty securely. Of course the dumb penalties that South Florida committed helped Pittsburgh immensely. But, looking down the road, if Pittsburgh's passing game continues to develop, we may have problems. And South Florida's QB is looking pretty stout himself. Just saying...
As you can probably tell, I chose to watch the USF/Pitt game last night over watching the Vice Presidential debate. Actually, I chose to watch old episodes of House over most of the USF/Pitt game and over the entire Vice Presidential debate. And after watching the news this morning regarding the debate, I am pleased with my choice.
Lastly, the bailout bill will probably pass today. Someone had better be watching this economy very, very closely because something has got to give. We're either going to watch the destruction of the dollar and high inflation or, maybe worse, we could see some deflationary forces begin to rumble due to a contraction of money in the market. This bailout is supposed to help stave off deflation but I'm not sure $700 billion is going to get banks to open the piggy bank.
And, really this is last, keep an eye on insurnace companies. Harry Reid's irresponsible comments the other day about a major insurance company on the brink of collapse could actually cause one or two to actually collapse. When investors here a senator say an insurance company could collapse, they quickly cashout...which is what leads to the collapse. Harry Reid should be censured or removed from office for causing even more pain in the private sector. What an idiot.
Thursday, October 02, 2008
Football Predictions
Yeah, might as well do it again. I was 6-0 last week, including the Alabama over Georgia game. WVU took care of business against Marshall, which was a bit of a surprise...I figured it would be relatively close. But Marshall is just really, really bad. And East Fairmont hung with Bridgeport much closer than I would have guessed. Oh well, I was still right. So, here's some predictions for this weekend...put your money down:
East Fairmont 45 - North Marion 17 - Looking to bounce back from back-to-back losses, East Fairmont should annihilate the poor Huskies. And considering EF is now a "bubble" playoff team, they need to. I'm not sure if 6-4 will get you in the playoffs...5-5 definitely won't.
University 28 - West Fairmont 17 - This may be the most interesting high school football game of the weekend. If I wasn't at the EFHS game, I would definitely make the trip to Morgantown for this one considering West and University both could win the NCAC crown. I haven't seen West yet this year, but I have seen University and they are relatively amazing.
Preston 24 - Morgantown 21 - Oh, this is my big upset. And what an upset it would be. Preston is good this year. Good enough to beat Morgantown? Probably not but if they're ever going to, this is the time. A little miracle and Preston could win. Well, maybe a big miracle.
South Florida 35 - Pitt 17 - Pittsburgh tried to let Syracuse win. Syracuse is just horrible. Pittsburgh is just a little better. This is Dave Wannstedt's last year.
WVU 38 - Rutgers 21 - What happened to Rutgers? Do you think Schiano is regretting staying this year? This isn't the year that Rutgers gets revenge for the 80-7 drubbing. Or is it? Rutgers is still a better team than Marshall and this should be a test on whether Stewart has actually made any progress.
Jaguars 17 - Steelers 14 - The Steelers are just beat up. Rothelisberger is still hurt. Parker is hurt. Moore is out for the season. And it is at Jacksonville. I just don't see them escaping with a victory.
And lastly,
Bailout Bill - YEA - 230 - NAY - 203 - In a comeback victory, the bailout bill will pass the House and our government will give away $700 billion +. Or maybe I should categorize this game a little differently:
"Elected" Officials 1 - American Taxpayers 0 - Maybe not. Get ready for the dollar to drop an amazing amount after this bill is passed and get ready to spend a lot of more on groceries, toilet paper and every other good you need.
East Fairmont 45 - North Marion 17 - Looking to bounce back from back-to-back losses, East Fairmont should annihilate the poor Huskies. And considering EF is now a "bubble" playoff team, they need to. I'm not sure if 6-4 will get you in the playoffs...5-5 definitely won't.
University 28 - West Fairmont 17 - This may be the most interesting high school football game of the weekend. If I wasn't at the EFHS game, I would definitely make the trip to Morgantown for this one considering West and University both could win the NCAC crown. I haven't seen West yet this year, but I have seen University and they are relatively amazing.
Preston 24 - Morgantown 21 - Oh, this is my big upset. And what an upset it would be. Preston is good this year. Good enough to beat Morgantown? Probably not but if they're ever going to, this is the time. A little miracle and Preston could win. Well, maybe a big miracle.
South Florida 35 - Pitt 17 - Pittsburgh tried to let Syracuse win. Syracuse is just horrible. Pittsburgh is just a little better. This is Dave Wannstedt's last year.
WVU 38 - Rutgers 21 - What happened to Rutgers? Do you think Schiano is regretting staying this year? This isn't the year that Rutgers gets revenge for the 80-7 drubbing. Or is it? Rutgers is still a better team than Marshall and this should be a test on whether Stewart has actually made any progress.
Jaguars 17 - Steelers 14 - The Steelers are just beat up. Rothelisberger is still hurt. Parker is hurt. Moore is out for the season. And it is at Jacksonville. I just don't see them escaping with a victory.
And lastly,
Bailout Bill - YEA - 230 - NAY - 203 - In a comeback victory, the bailout bill will pass the House and our government will give away $700 billion +. Or maybe I should categorize this game a little differently:
"Elected" Officials 1 - American Taxpayers 0 - Maybe not. Get ready for the dollar to drop an amazing amount after this bill is passed and get ready to spend a lot of more on groceries, toilet paper and every other good you need.
Wednesday, October 01, 2008
Who's Accountable?
So, who is accountable if the bailout plan passes? Who will take the blame is taxpayers lose $700 billion? George Bush? Nancy Pelosi? Harry Reid? Henry Paulson? Nah. How about you? Me? At the end of the day, it's your money they're spending. And it's my money that they're spending. I hear a lot of doom and gloom being preached and I hear a lot of threats being levied but I have yet to hear anyone who wants to desperately to spend our money truly explain what they hope to accomplish and why we should go along with this hasty plan.
Do you really trust that this government knows how to responsibly spend another $700 billion dollars? I'm not sure I do. I would rather the market work it's way out of the current mess than to see Congress attempt to meddle in the market. There "elected" officials have run up trillions of dollars worth of debt and now they want to control the real estate market and fully control the banking system? Ha.
At the beginning, this looked like a sincere attempt to save the American taxpayer from pain. But it has become very clear that this is nothing more than political games to simply increase the power of those "elected" officials. Thank goodness the House Republicans stood up against ill-conceived plan and are demanding more accountability.
It will be interesting to see how this all plays out. I've written off the president...he is a man without a party as far as I'm concerned. He's become the worst at attepting to expand government at the expense of the taxpayer. Hopefully he'll find himself going it alone. I'm sure Dems will back his plan and it may very well pass at the end...but remember who continues to foot the bill and it's not those people in Washington.
Do you really trust that this government knows how to responsibly spend another $700 billion dollars? I'm not sure I do. I would rather the market work it's way out of the current mess than to see Congress attempt to meddle in the market. There "elected" officials have run up trillions of dollars worth of debt and now they want to control the real estate market and fully control the banking system? Ha.
At the beginning, this looked like a sincere attempt to save the American taxpayer from pain. But it has become very clear that this is nothing more than political games to simply increase the power of those "elected" officials. Thank goodness the House Republicans stood up against ill-conceived plan and are demanding more accountability.
It will be interesting to see how this all plays out. I've written off the president...he is a man without a party as far as I'm concerned. He's become the worst at attepting to expand government at the expense of the taxpayer. Hopefully he'll find himself going it alone. I'm sure Dems will back his plan and it may very well pass at the end...but remember who continues to foot the bill and it's not those people in Washington.
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